In this week’s Toolbox Tuesday video, we’ll discuss the similarities and differences between bipolar disorder and PTSD, focusing specifically on the parallels between hyperarousal and mania.

I have been diagnosed, at various points, with PTSD, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety, but I have only been diagnosed as bipolar once. That diagnosis came from Dr. Henry Emmons, author of “The Chemistry of Joy.” In this video, you’ll learn exactly how I feel about Dr. Emmons and my bipolar diagnosis.

Have you ever been misdiagnosed as bipolar? Do you experience symptoms as a trauma survivor that mimic mania? Let me know in the comments.

Towards the end of the video, I’ll explain hypervigilance, another unfortunate symptom of PTSD that falls under the hyperarousal umbrella. If you can combat hyperarousal, you can conquer hypervigilance.

The video concludes with a handful of skills you can use to prevent and recover from hyperarousal episodes.

Thank you so much for watching. Be sure to reach out in the comments with any future video suggestions!